Emery Henderson to Highway 74 is an 8-mile point-to-point segment of the 80-mile Black Canyon Trail (BCT). This segment runs from the Emery Henderson Trailhead to Highway 74, located north of Phoenix, AZ, off of Interstate 17. This is a non-motorized trail that is open to hikers, trail runners, backpackers, equestrians, and mountain bikers.
The trail through this section is fairly flat through open desert with little elevation loss or gain. The trail traverses across sandy and rocky terrain amidst a landscape dotted with a variety of cacti, shrubs, and chaparral. Many people choose to end (or begin depending on the direction you choose) the Black Canyon Trail at the Emery Henderson Trailhead, however, the trail actually concludes at Highway 74.
There is a campground with parking located at Highway 74, for more information please visit: https://www.azgfd.com/shooting/basf/camping/.
PERMITS
There are no permits or fees required to hike or bike this trail.
WEATHER AND SEASON
This desert trail features hot summers and little shade. In the winter the temperatures can drop below freezing at night, but during the day the averages are around 60-70 degrees making it the perfect winter getaway for anyone craving the sun while most of the country remains dark and cold.
HISTORY
The BCT follows a route that was once used for Native American travelers and traders. In 2008 the trail received its National Recreation Trail designation. This designation came as the result of it’s rugged nature, natural beauty, and historical significance. To learn more about the history of the trail and surrounding area please visit: History of the Black Canyon Trail.
MORE INFORMATION
Black Canyon Trail Coalition: https://bctaz.org/.
Bureau of Land Management: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/mountainbike/blackcanyon.
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